Germanium 4 Big Muff Pi
Distortion/ Overdrive

Combining four classic germanium transistors, the Germanium Big Muff Pi is the result of a focused modern design dripping with EH analog heritage. An independent overdrive and distortion each have their own sets of two germanium transistors as well as independent controls. The ability to stack and use both the overdrive and distortion together delivers the power of a four germanium transistor circuit with ultimate control flexibility.

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Quick Specs

Individual overdrive and distortion with the ability to stack them together

4 individual Germanium Transistors

Each mode of drive mode uses its own 2 germanium stack

Overdrive and distortion can be stacked utilizing four germanium transistors

Germanium is an element like carbon or gold. Germanium transistors were used extensively back in the 1950s and ‘60s. Eventually they were replaced by components that were considered “better.” The EHX Germanium OD and Germanium 4 Big Muff Pi use these old school transistors. They have a distinctive sound, some say smoother or “spongier.” You be the judge, hear the Germanium OD here.

Bill Ruppert breathes in the dew of a fine morning in old Eire. With a sly wink and a nod, Bill recreates the mystery of the old Ireland using a little Elvin magic and the power of EHX pedals.
Learn the secrets of creating lush string synthesizers and Irish tin whistles, using just a regular guitar and Electro-Harmonix effect pedals.

Please note: Bill will be in the EHX Forums to discuss his sounds, settings, and process. We hope you join us there.

The new Germanium 4 Big Muff Pi is reviewed in the February 2011 issue of Vintage Guitar magazine. Their conclusion? “The Germanium 4 Big Muff Pi is the most versatile version in the pedal’s lineage, and does its predecessors proud.”

Guitarist magazine recently reviewed the Germanium 4 Big Muff Pi and the Freeze. They said the Germanium 4 Big Muff Pi delivers, “separate overdrive and distortion for the price of a single stompbox…” and described the Freeze as, “a creative idea that can add a really interesting new dimension to your playing.”

You are entering the EHX zone where Goblins and Goolies infest within diabolical guitar skills. Metallic clangs rasp against the midnight clock and rundown Lothar’s pipe organ to reveal a Halloween festival featuring Bill Ruppert as the caretaker.

“This Germanium4 Big Muff Pi is one of the more versatile of the lot!” It offers not only two distinct drive and distortion setups but it utilizes two uniquely different control panels. Use individually or stack them together for ultra-powerful, pure germanium analog edge and drive.

From New Dehli to the Australian Outback, Bill Ruppert dials in the shortwave radio bringing the sonic mysteries of the East skillfully cloaked within EHX designs. Sitars shimmer as tablas relay the rhythm. Magical kalimbas meet the aboriginal drones to weave textures that define the interactive power of each and every Electro-Harmonix pedal.

Get this limited-edition Day-Glo poster of the original 1968 art that inspired the Electro-Harmonix logo!

Mike Matthews stated: “The image on our Flashback Poster is of the original artwork that inspired the famous Electro-Harmonix logo. I think players who dig our pedals will also enjoy the chance to own a piece of EHX memorabilia.”

Did you know that Electro-Harmonix makes many of the world's greatest vacuum tubes? The next time you need to re-tube your guitar, bass, or hi-fi amp, be sure to insist on getting authentic Electro-Harmonix tubes.

Our new EH Strings allow you to capture every nuance of your playing style with lightning fast playability. Made of a pure nickel wrap with a specially-selected stainless steel, these sweet-sounding round wounds are truly like no other strings you've played. Not only do they last longer and stay in tune longer, but we think they're the best sounding strings ever made. Available in 9s, 10s and 11s.